Conclusion

ABSTRACT

This conclusion reviews the previous chapters and outlines the main reasons which made planning and policy essential to tourism development in the Middle East. The main conclusion drawn is that adaptations in planning and development at the business and destination level will be instrumental to sustain growth and support the economic recovery of Middle Eastern countries following the COVID-19 pandemic. Regardless of the type of tourism, specific country and destination image characteristics (e.g. safety and hygiene) emerge as particularly important, thereby calling destination planners and policy makers to act accordingly.